DESPITE attracting record crowds, Nantwich and South Cheshire Show has reported a loss of £3,300.

The show at Dorfold Park in July broke the 30,000 attendance barrier for the first time in its 100-year history, but spiralling costs meant it was not a financial success.

Joint show secretary Adrian Lawrence said this week: 'It cost us a staggering £370,000 to stage the show, and it is asking a lot to raise £371,000 to make a profit.

'We didn't manage to do that and it is very disappointing that the best show we have ever staged still ran at a loss.

'But steps are being taken. We have set up a steering committee to see how we can cut costs without damaging the show and the esteem in which it is held.'

Mr Lawrence added: 'By 2010, and not taking inflation into account, we will have spent £93,000 on tracking and a colossal £432,000 on marquees - yet we will not own them or have anything to show for the expenditure. It is just a fact of life that we have to lay out these tremendous sums to stage the show.

'Our show and the International Cheese Show, which is one of our main attractions, have reputations that are envied throughout the UK and we have to make sure we maintain those standards.'

After two years in which the show was hit by torrential rain, this year's event was held in excellent weather with record entries in practically every class and more than 100 trade stands packed into the showground.

Mr Lawrence said he had hoped to re-engage the Australian stuntman the Kangaroo Kid who had proved a popular attraction in July, but his diary for next year is already full.

He said: 'He gave one of the most spectacular displays we have ever had on the showground and we were keen to have him back, but unfortunately we are unable to. But I am sure we will be able to find another spectacular act to please the crowds next year.'

The show is run by Nantwich Agricultural Society whose chairman John Broomhall said: 'The financial loss was the only aspect of the show that was disappointing.

'We had a record £90,000 in sponsorship, and if everyone continues to work hard I hope we will be able to top the £100,000 mark next year.

'We need to cut costs in other ways, but if we could raise that extra £10,000 it would make all the difference.

'Whenever we make a profit we like to support local charities, but unfortunately we are not in a position to do that this year.'